Cocktail wedding guest attire has become one of the most popular dress codes for soon-to-be newlyweds to choose for their special day. This common style of dress is a great option if you want the day to be fairly laid back, but still with a hint of formality. Think of cocktail dressing as the ultimate smart-casual dress code. This style of dress meets all the requirements for a stylish event, but also being less formal than black tie. Cocktail attire is all about having fun, and enjoying what you are wearing whilst like its namesake, with a cocktail or two.
What Is Cocktail Attire?
If you are stuck, thinking “what is cocktail attire for a wedding?”, essentially cocktail attire is a balance between formal wear and casual, also known as smart-casual. This means elegance and sophistication should be a big factor when choosing what to wear, but it also needs to be comfortable and something you can also dance the night away in.
Usually when we think of a cocktail wedding guest dress we think of an above-the-knee cocktail dress, but this doesn't always have to be the case. As long as we choose something that embodies elegance but not too formal that you could be walking the red carpet. Here are some examples to help inspire:
Mariela Maxi Dress In Pine Green
Olivera Midi Dress In Pink Echinacea
Venice Dress In Black & Green Mix
How To Accessorise Cocktail Wedding Attire
Cocktail dressing is all about the accessories. Using accessories effectively can help boost an outfit to the next level of elegance. Shoes such as strappy heels or court shoes are a quick and easy way to level up your semi-formal outfit. Choosing shoes with some added sparkle, embellishment or detail will not only bring the outfit together but can help boost a more formal feel to a dress or outfit that may be slightly more casual than formal.
Bold jewellery such as necklaces, bracelets and rings are also a great option to elevate an outfit. If you want to make a statement with hanging earrings, try to avoid a statement necklace also. This also works the other way for a statement necklace. Bags should also be small such as a clutch style, try to avoid larger bags as these bags don't scream elegance.
Do You Have To Wear A Dress To A Cocktail Wedding?
Although cocktail dresses are the go to option for cocktail attire, this doesn't always have to be the case. If dresses aren't your thing, then opting for a jumpsuit, co-ords or suits are also perfect options. The style of outfit in terms of length, fit or silhouette is usually very flexible as long as you feel elegant and comfortable.
The one thing to avoid when choosing your wedding guest outfit is to stay away from materials such as cotton and denim. These fabrics are too casual and will not meet the soon to be Mr and Mrs dress code for cocktail dressing.
Zion Slinky Jumpsuit In Multi Inky Leopard
Holly Jumpsuit In Pink On Black Cloud
FAQs
Here are some FAQs if you are attending a cocktail dress code.
How Long Should Cocktail Dresses Be?
There is no set length when it comes to cocktail dresses. The best way to choose the length for you is considering if the dress is still elegant enough for a wedding day, but also formal and reserved enough you wouldn't mind wearing it in front of your grandparents.
What Is Summer Cocktail Attire?
Like with any summer wedding, it's best to choose lightweight fabrics that are both flowing and breathable to keep you cool throughout the day. Materials such as chiffon, linen and silk are good options. Summer pastels and florals are also great options to add a romantic edge to the outfit. Maxi and midi dresses are a perfect go to option, as well as a sleeveless jumpsuit.
What To Avoid Wearing At A Cocktail Wedding?
Avoid options that are made from more casual fabrics that will not meet the formal side of the cocktail attire. Materials such as denim and cottons such as jersey should be avoided.